On March 20, 2026, Rupali Chakankar resigned from her position at the Maharashtra State Women’s Commission amid a growing scandal involving Ashok Kharat, who was arrested on multiple charges including rape, molestation, and cheating. The case has sent shockwaves through the political landscape of Maharashtra, with allegations that Kharat had been exploiting his influence for years.
A video that surfaced in mid-March showing Kharat urinating into a glass and offering it to a woman went viral, further igniting public outrage. This incident is just one of many that have come to light, as Neeraj Jadhav, a whistleblower, has recorded over a hundred videos of alleged assaults by Kharat.
Authorities have filed eight cases against Kharat, with two additional FIRs for rape recently added to the growing list. The Maharashtra Prevention and Eradication of Human Sacrifice and other Inhuman, Evil and Aghori Practices and Black Magic Act has been invoked in this case, highlighting the bizarre and disturbing nature of the allegations.
Chakankar, who was listed as a trustee of Kharat’s charitable trust, Shivanika, has claimed that her recent finger injury was due to an accident during a ritual, raising questions about her involvement and knowledge of Kharat’s activities. Meanwhile, Kharat’s alleged threats to victims using plastic snakes and tiger skins have painted a chilling picture of his methods.
Political figures have weighed in on the situation, with Jitendra Awhad stating, “I have the names of all the MLAs. I will reveal them at the right time,” suggesting that the scandal may reach further into the political sphere. Devendra Fadnavis dismissed claims of black magic, stating, “Nothing happens through black magic,” while Raj Thackeray hinted at political motivations behind the scandal, saying, “I am hearing that to clip the wings of someone’s ambition, this matter will be used.”
In the wake of these revelations, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) was constituted on March 13, 2026, to thoroughly investigate the allegations against Kharat. The case has drawn significant media attention, with many observers eager to see how it will unfold.
As the investigation continues, the public is left to grapple with the implications of Kharat’s actions and the potential involvement of others in this disturbing saga. With three women now agreeing to lodge formal complaints against him, the full extent of Kharat’s alleged crimes may still be unfolding.
Details remain unconfirmed as the investigation progresses, but the impact of this scandal on Maharashtra’s political landscape is already being felt. The demand for justice and accountability is louder than ever, as victims seek to reclaim their voices in the face of such grave allegations.
